Eddie Lee Willis

Eddie Lee Willis was born on Friday, February 16, 1934, in Freestone County, Texas, to the parentage of Garfield and Annie Willis. In his role as business manager of the family, Eddie’s education in Fairfield, TX went far beyond learning his “ABCs” and “123s.” After his service in the Army, he became a well-known entrepreneur in the Dallas, TX metroplex, not only for his welding skills but also as a leader in his church and community.

Whether seen out and about in his Willis Enterprises Welding Truck (famously reoutfitted from a vintage Frito-Lay truck) or out on a two-seater bike ride with his wife and daughters, Eddie never met a stranger. To many, he himself was considered “home.” Above all else, he is most remembered for his love of the Lord: sharing his testimony, lifting his melodious singing voice in worship, teaching the Word, and living out his faith with actions that spoke louder than words ever could.

Eddie was preceded in death by his parents, Garfield Sr. and Annie Willis; brothers Jessie Willis, George Willis, Garfield Willis Jr., Willie Willis, and William Willis; sisters Geneva Holland, Veola Daniels, Annie Lee, Lorene Peters, Pearlie Williams, Dorothy Davis, and Pearlie Jane Willis.

He leaves to cherish his precious memories: his devoted wife, Mrs. Della Rene’ Anderson Willis; three daughters, Annie Ewing, Chejuana Lene’ Martin, and Shandria Petrice Russell; two sons-in-law, Dion Martin and James Russell Jr.; four grandchildren, Choi Ewing, Bobby Kirk Ewing, Ashleigh Martin, and Grayson Alice Rene’ Willis Russell; one sister, Nellie Martin; one brother, Frankie Willis; along with a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

“Dad,” “PaPa,” “Deacon,” and so many other titles live on in love for Eddie. He honorably loved and leaves behind the numerous “adopted children and family” who left their love and mark on him. From his wife’s childhood friends, to his daughters’ preschool classmates, and to the relationships they formed as adults, he not only told them that they were family, he showed them.